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($1,219) Cost to Move From Harrisburg, PA to Chicago, IL

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Quick answer: A move from Harrisburg to Chicago costs $569 – $5,606 and usually takes one to six days. Key factors include your move size, date, and whether you hire pros or do the 658-mile drive yourself.

Moving the reverse route? We’ve got you covered with our guide to moving from Chicago to Harrisburg.

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Recommended by Consumer Reports

Each year, 400,000+ people trust our moving recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Founded in 2015
  • 3,500+ moving companies analyzed
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Best movers by type

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Best professional movers from Harrisburg to Chicago

Making the long-distnace move from Harrisburg to Chicago is easier when you hire a full-service moving company to handle every stage of the relocation. From packing and loading to delivery and unpacking, they manage the process so you can focus on the bigger picture.

With 12 interstate moving companies in Harrisburg, we’ve put together a list of the top full-service movers to help you make the move to Chicago with ease.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

What moving services are available in Harrisburg?toggle

Service availability isn’t the same everywhere. This table highlights how often movers in Harrisburg offer each option, alongside figures for PA and nationwide, so you can quickly see what’s simple to book and what may require extra planning.

Service Harrisburg (Count) Harrisburg (%) PA (Count) PA (%) National (Count) National (%)
Packing & Materials
Packing 16 94% 97 97% 2,833 98%
Unpacking 16 94% 95 95% 2,798 96%
Fragile-only packing 5 29% 26 26% 718 24%
Packing materials 5 29% 58 58% 1,684 58%
Storage
Long-term 14 82% 87 87% 2,499 86%
Climate-controlled 3 17% 27 27% 977 33%
Specialty Handling
Custom crating 11 64% 66 66% 1,884 65%
Art 10 58% 52 52% 1,398 48%
Antiques 9 52% 55 55% 1,401 48%
Piano 13 76% 76 76% 2,173 75%
Hot tub 3 17% 22 22% 670 23%
Pool table 4 23% 29 29% 941 32%

How we chose the best movers PA→IL moverstoggle

moveBuddha’s dedicated analysts have scrutinized moving rates across 99 Pennsylvania moving firms, selecting the top providers by assessing customer approval, reviews, and affordability.

  • Customer satisfaction (40%): The team ensures timely service delivery, engages in effective communication, and adheres to the projected costs.
  • Dispute resolution (20%): Moving isn’t perfect, and mistakes will happen. We highlight movers that handle those situations honestly and put effort into resolving them fairly.
  • Industry reputation (15%): The company is well-regarded within the moving industry and participates in industry conferences and organizations.
  • Online reputation (15%): This mover keeps its website up to date and provides timely, professional replies to questions or concerns raised online.
  • Service options (10%): Companies stand out when they provide comprehensive options such as full-service packing, safe storage, handling of specialty items, and expedited shipping.

Here is our full moving company rating methodology.

Highly rated local moving companies for Harrisburg to Chicago moves

Organizing a move from Harrisburg to Chicago can be daunting, particularly when trying to identify a reliable mover that offers long-distance services. We’ve done the groundwork for you, evaluating local movers in Harrisburg known for their long-distance moving capabilities, assessing them on pricing, customer experiences, and reliability.

Here are the best local movers for long-distance moves from Harrisburg to Chicago.

  1. Geo. W. Weaver & Sons Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  2. Spirit Moving Company LLC: 4.58 out of 5 stars
  3. The Armstrong Company: 4.8 out of 5 stars
  4. Keystone Moving and Junk Removal: 4.38 out of 5 stars
  5. Charles E. Groff & Sons, Inc.: 4.48 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.7% of all reviews were positive
6.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving with Geo. W. Weaver & Sons Inc. means working with a team known for efficiency, professionalism, and careful service.
Out of 259 reviews, 92.7% report positive experiences, making this company a standout in the moving industry. Customers consistently mention the staff’s courtesy, professionalism, and attention to detail. Moves are often completed quickly and without issue, and communication from the office to the moving crew earns praise for keeping customers informed and at ease. On the flip side, a few clients have faced issues like damaged items, inaccurate quotes, and communication breakdowns. Complaints about property damage and unexpected costs are more frequent than with similar services. Despite some negative feedback, the vast majority of input highlights reliability, speed, and a crew that takes extra care with belongings.
Show more
Get a Quote (717) 774-7838

Company Info

State license #: 702302

Years in Business: 127

DOT #: 10676

Alternate Names: Harrisburg Storage Co. , M.F. Rockey Moving Company , Penn Hershey Transfer , Harrisburg Transfer Company , George W. Weaver

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.8% of all reviews were positive
8.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Spirit Moving Company stands out for its professionalism, attentive handling, and courteous team, according to 98 customer feedback reports. Approximately 92% of customers delivered glowing input, often praising the movers’ professionalism, careful approach, efficiency, and timely completion of moves. Many also describe the staff as friendly and the booking process as seamless.
Repeat customers and strong word-of-mouth recommendations highlight a reputation many local companies do not achieve. On the negative side, about 8% experienced issues such as damage to property or belongings, missed appointments, and unresolved incidents like missing items. These negative experiences mostly relate to claims of careless handling, lack of reliability, and problems reaching or receiving response from management. Compared to the moving industry norm, Spirit Moving Company receives a notably higher share of positive mentions for professionalism and genuine care. While instances of poor outcomes exist, the majority found Spirit Moving Company dependable and highly recommend their service.
Show more
Get a Quote (717) 978-3050

Company Info

State license #: 8921736

Years in Business: 6

DOT #: 3214709

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Crating
  • Storage
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
90.7% of all reviews were positive
8.4% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers often call Armstrong Relocation the gold standard of moving. Out of 225 reviews analyzed, more than 90% featured positive feedback. Most praise the team’s professionalism, attention to detail, speed, careful handling, and responsive communication.
Crews consistently arrive on time, treat belongings and homes with respect, and finish quickly. Many note estimates are accurate, and several say Armstrong’s pricing beats competitors. On the downside, a handful of customers report property damage and long waits for claim resolution. Some cite trouble reaching staff or unexpected extra costs. Compared with industry standards, Armstrong receives far fewer serious complaints, and its teams are routinely described as the most professional movers customers have hired. The company earns strong trust and repeat business, with negative feedback mostly centered on damage claims, rare billing issues, or isolated incidents of poor communication.
Show more
Get a Quote (717) 492-4155

Company Info

State license #: 8917264

Years in Business: 76

DOT #: 1170867

Alternate Names: Jack Treier Moving & Storage

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Storage
  • Fragile-only packing
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
98.9% of all reviews were positive
1.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Five-star service shines through in nearly every piece of customer feedback for Keystone Moving and Junk Removal. Out of 190 reviews, 98.9% express satisfaction, with the team earning praise for professionalism, efficiency, careful handling, friendly attitudes, quick moving times, and fair pricing. Customers frequently describe Keystone’s staff as courteous and respectful, with movers arriving promptly and communicating clearly throughout the process.
Input emphasizes both speed and careful attention to belongings, with repeated reports of moves completed ahead of schedule and without damage. Many note the affordability compared to competitors. A few isolated complaints highlight issues with deposit refunds and pricing estimates, contrasting sharply with the consistent satisfaction elsewhere. Compared to typical moving companies—which often struggle to maintain reliability and care—Keystone stands out for delivering a pleasant, seamless moving experience nearly every time.
Show more
Get a Quote (717) 712-5094

Company Info

State license #: 8920233

Years in Business: 10

DOT #: 3011826

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Crating
  • Pay by credit card
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
78.9% of all reviews were positive
19.5% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Customers rave about Charles E. Groff & Sons, Inc. for their consistently efficient service and attention to detail. Out of 133 feedback submissions, 79% gave positive ratings, a noteworthy number compared to most moving companies.
Clients often praise the movers’ speed, care with belongings, professionalism, and helpful attitude, especially during stressful transitions. Many highlight quick processes and movers who go above and beyond. Some clients even received services under budget. On the downside, the most common frustrations surround unfriendly or rude office staff, occasional item damage or loss, and unreturned calls or late arrivals. Despite areas needing more transparency and communication, the favorable feedback distinctly outweighs concerns, indicating Groff & Sons exceeds expectations in most relocations.
Show more
Get a Quote (717) 653-1357

Company Info

State license #: 700812

Years in Business: 76

DOT #: 396907

Services Offered

  • Local moves
  • Interstate moves
  • International moves
  • Packing
  • Unpacking
  • Offices
  • Pianos
  • Pool Tables
  • Art
  • Antiques
  • Grandfather clocks
  • Crating
  • Full-valuation coverage
  • Storage
  • Safes
  • Pay by credit card

How much does it cost to move from Harrisburg to Chicago?

On average, moving companies in Pennsylvania charge about $143 per hour. Consider these typical rates for a full-service moving company, moving container, or rental truck:

Move size Moving company Moving container Rental truck
Studio / 1 bedroom $1,219 – $3,577 $786 – $1,845 $528 – $1,006
2 – 3 bedrooms $2,137 – $5,606 $1,402 – $2,712 $569 – $1,138
4+ bedrooms $3,717 – $7,871 $1,912 – $3,377 $724 – $1,431
Estimated costs are based on 658 miles and historical data. Final pricing can shift due to move size, extra services, parking logistics, demand in the market, and timing.

Cost to hire movers from Harrisburg to Chicago

When planning a move to Chicago from Harrisburg, for a studio or one-bedroom, you’ll likely pay between $1,219 and $3,577. If you have a two- or three-bedroom home, expect costs to fall somewhere between $2,137 and $5,606 for the same journey. Moving four or five bedrooms? Typical prices range from $3,717 to $7,871.

Cost of moving containers from Harrisburg to Chicago

When you’re heading from Harrisburg to Chicago, and you’re only moving a few items, you can expect to spend between $786 and $1,845. For a two- or three-bedroom place, prices usually fall between $1,402 and $2,712. If you’re packing up a large home with four or more bedrooms, the cost can range from $1,912 to $3,377. Want more details? Check out our complete PODS cost guide.

Explore the top budget-friendly moving container companies to make your move from Pennsylvania easier and more affordable.

Cost of moving truck rentals from Harrisburg to Chicago

A moving rental truck from Harrisburg to Chicago is generally the cheapest option, but it requires you to do all of the driving and labor.

Moving a studio or one-bedroom apartment in a rental truck will cost around $528 to $1,006. A two to three-bedroom move will cost $569 to $1,138, and moving a home with four or more bedrooms from Harrisburg to Chicago costs around $724 to $1,431.

These quotes include the estimated fuel cost.

Factors that affect moving costs from Harrisburg to Chicago toggle

The cost of Harrisburg movers will depend on:

  • How much stuff you have: A one-bedroom move from Harrisburg to Chicago may only cost $1,862, whereas a full four-bedroom relocation can approach $6,673.
  • The season you’re moving in: Movers charge more in summer, the busiest months in Harrisburg.
  • Which type of mover you use: Save with a truck rental ($528–$1,313), but expect more hassle than hiring pros.

What to know before moving from Harrisburg to Chicago

Expect a bump in monthly expenses after the move – Chicago runs about 97% higher for singles and 157% higher for families than Harrisburg.

Singles spend around $3,648 in Harrisburg versus $1,849 in Harrisburg; families pay $9,266 compared with $3,612.

Dig into the side-by-side details here:

Harrisburg Chicago
Average 1 BR rent $1,550 $2,368
Average 3 BR rent $1,946 $4,581
Average home value $230,038 $295,743
Average income (per capita) $73,256 $71,566
Unemployment rate 13.4% 9.0%
Sales tax 6.0% 10.25%
State income tax 3.07% 4.95%
  • Rent is about 70% more expensive in Chicago than in Harrisburg. Make sure to include this increase in your monthly budget.
  • Plan for a heftier mortgage payment since home prices are approximately 29% steeper in Chicago compared to Harrisburg.
  • There’s good news: the average income differences between Chicago and Harrisburg are within a modest 5%, minimizing financial adjustments.
  • Prepare for elevated costs in Chicago, with the cost of living for a single person being 97% more than in Harrisburg. This includes routine costs such as utilities, groceries, clothes, and transportation.
  • When considering a family move to Chicago, prepare for a potential rise in household expenses. The cost of living for a family here is 157% higher than in Harrisburg.
  • Chicago has a lower unemployment rate than Harrisburg by about 33%. This signals a stronger job market and healthier local economy, both promising indicators for someone relocating.
  • Sales taxes in Chicago surpass those in Harrisburg by 71%. This means everyday items like clothing, dining, and electronics may cost more at checkout.
  • Income taxes are 61% more in Illinois than in Pennsylvania. This increase in state taxes means you will retain less of your earnings, impacting your disposable income.

Here’s the side-by-side view of common monthly bills and day-to-day expenses in Harrisburg versus Chicago:

Living Expense Harrisburg Chicago
Basic utilities $160.00 $191.26
Cell phone plan $59.67 $61.10
Dozen eggs $4.26 $4.52
Loaf of bread $3.72 $4.15
Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) $15.00 $25.00
Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) $65.00 $100.00
Gym membership $27.50 $78.31
  • Basic utilities cost less in Harrisburg than in Chicago, helping trim your monthly bills.
  • Cell phone plans are cheaper in Harrisburg than in Chicago.
  • Eggs are less expensive in Harrisburg than in Chicago.
  • Bread costs less in Harrisburg than in Chicago.
  • A quick meal is cheaper in Harrisburg than in Chicago.
  • A mid-range dinner for two costs less in Harrisburg than in Chicago.
  • Gym memberships are more affordable in Harrisburg than in Chicago.

How life is different in Harrisburg vs. Chicago

Harrisburg Chicago
Population 50,099 2,746,388
Transportation score 6 9
Walkability score 68 77
Bike friendliness score 57 72
Crime index 64.18 35.19
Safety index 35.82 33.87
Air quality Moderate Good
  • Chicago’s population is about 5382% greater than Harrisburg.
  • Chicago’s public transportation score of 9 out of 10 is higher than Harrisburg’s score of 6.
  • Chicago is more walkable than Harrisburg with a score of 77 out of 100 vs Harrisburg’s 68 out of 100.
  • With a score of 72 out of 100, Chicago is more bike-friendly than Harrisburg, which has a score of 57 out of 100. The higher a city’s score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
  • Chicago’s crime rate is lower than Harrisburg with a score of 35.19 compared to Harrisburg’s 64.18. This means that Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Harrisburg neighborhoods are safer than 64.18%.
  • Chicago and Harrisburg have a similar safety level, with scores of 33.87 and 35.82.
  • Air quality in Chicago is Good, and in Harrisburg it’s Moderate.

Other things to consider for your Harrisburg to Chicago move

  • HOA rules: Costs across Harrisburg and Chicago are largely aligned, so your monthly budget shouldn’t shift much after the move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: In Illinois, regulations on in-state moves and local movers are set forth by the Illinois Commerce Commission. To move household goods locally and intrastate, companies need to have a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, so make sure the companies you’re considering have one and that it’s current. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
  • State regulator: To confirm a moving company’s license in Illinois, visit the state’s public utilities commission.
  • Moving Permits: Moving permits aren’t typically required in Illinois, but always confirm with local authorities to avoid surprises.
  • Change of address: You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Chicago. Get started here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry. Choose cost-free Released Value Protection from movers for basic coverage at 60 cents per pound. For more extensive protection matching your items’ full value, consult your moving company for alternative options or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

Where to live in Chicago

With your sights set on Chi-Town, these are some of the most popular neighborhoods to consider in Chicago.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Lake View
  • Lincoln Park
  • The Loop
  • Near North Side
  • West Town

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Beverly
  • Edison Park
  • Lincoln Park
  • North Center
  • West Loop

Things to do in Chicago

With your move to Illinois complete, you can dive right into experiencing Chicago. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do:

  • Arts and culture: Chicago is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Art Institute of Chicago, and Chicago History Museum.
  • Outdoor recreation: The city’s Millennium Park, Grant Park, The 606, and Lincoln Park — among other spots — perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking up the outdoors.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Chicago Bears (NFL)Chicago Cubs (MLB)Chicago White Sox (MLB)Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)Chicago Bulls (NBA)Chicago Fire (MLS)Chicago Sky (WNBA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from Harrisburg to Chicago?toggle

If you’re flexible with timing, spring and fall are great seasons to move from Harrisburg to Chicago. You’ll dodge the heat, the crowds, and the higher moving costs typical of peak season in Harrisburg.

When is the cheapest time to move from Harrisburg to Chicago?toggle

Want to save on your move from Harrisburg to Chicago? Consider scheduling it in winter, when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper. Our moving discounts guide shows you how.

How long does a move from Harrisburg to Chicago take?toggle

The 658-mile move from Harrisburg, PA, to Chicago, , takes one to six days. Some Harrisburg movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Chicago.

Need help moving a piano or antiques in Harrisburg?toggle

These delicate items require movers with specialized training. Currently, 13 movers in Harrisburg provide piano moving services. 9 can transport antiques with care. Statewide, there are 76 piano movers and 55 antique movers, with nationwide counts at 2,173 and 1,401.

Demand for these services can be high, so schedule your specialty move as far ahead as possible.

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